Guild D-225

It appears to be an early 1970's 12 string. I had an old D-212 and loved it. Had to sell it a few years ago and even after buying a Taylor I couldn't make peace with letting the guild go. I bought this on ebay and couldn't be happier. It is dreadnought shaped with a spruce top and dark mahogany sides/back (I think - it is dark enough for rosewood but seems to have a mahogany grain). Finish is glossy. Looks like an ebony finger board and bridge with a mahogany neck. Has mini grover tuners. The neck is thin for a 12 string but not quite as thin as the Taylor 355.

I do a lot of finger work and love the sound. It is bright without the tinny jangle that can come with 12 strings. With hard strumming it fills the room with piano-like sound and it carries very well with simple finger picking. I did a side-to-side comparison with the Taylor. Even though it was three times the price, the Taylor is heading for ebay and the guild stays home. There was no comparison. The guild (eith 2 year old strings) made the Taylor sound muffled and thin. I am giving the sound a 9 only because I am working on my wife to let me buy a Breedlove as a second 12 string.

The bookmatching on the top is beautiful. Almost looks like a single piece of wood. The finish has become golden and the guitar looks rich. The neck is true and has double truss rods. I can bar chord all the way up with no pain. I have a Larrivee L-09 six string and I find the guild better for playing. It almost plays itself. I tune down and use a capo so would like a couple more frets on the neck. A stretch guild would be awesome.

This quitar is about 30 years old and still playing and sounding great. There is a little lifting at the bridge (probably someone kept it tuned to E - that happened on my 212 too). I see one small finish crack that doesn't effect the sound at all. Given the age of this axe I must say I am impressed. I am counting on it lasting given that the Taylor is going on the block.

I bought this used and haven't had to deal with the company. Now that Guild is owned by Fender, I probably won't be in touch. I am leaving this rating as no opinion.

I have been playing for about 35 years. This is my fifth 12 string. Given my last Guild (also 1970's) I knew I would love this guitar and I was so right. I bought it without playing it first and was a little nervous about the neck and action. I am so pleased. I also have a 6 string Larrivee and a Fender Coronado II. I used to gig but mostly play at home and in the studio (I write). If this were to be stolen I would be back on ebay searching again. I had a hard time getting over selling my last Guild. This one will grow old (actually older) with me.